Lakers Free Agency Profile: LeBron James
Over the next few weeks, as this season mercifully comes to an end, I’ll be profiling any and all potential free agents the Los Angeles Lakers might look at this upcoming off-season in the order they are listed on HoopsHype.com.
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So without further ado, we start with LeBron James and that pesky player option hanging over the entire city of Cleveland. The entire NBA would immediately burst into a frenzy if he were to opt out of his current contract, as for the second time in as many years, the league’s best player could be had for mere cap space.
First, I don’t see a scenario where James actually opts out. For the most part, he’s been happy back home where he’s played general manager quite well. Given all the hoopla of the return of the prodigal son, turning heel – while absolutely amazing drama – probably out of the question. But, if the next few weeks end catastrophically, there may just be a chance.
Now, should James hit the open market, it’s hard to envision the Lakers with a legitimate shot at signing him. James will be looking for a situation where he can immediately be poised to win a title. This is where keeping that top-five pick becomes absolutely pivotal. Without it, all James would have to ask is “how exactly do you plan to build a title contender around me?” and the Lakers response would like something like:
¯\_(ツ)_/¯
With the pick, however, Mitch Kupchak could sell James on some combination of himself, Kobe Bryant, Julius Randle, another talented rookie, a mid-level free agent and Jordan Clarkson, who’s made serious strides as the starting point guard. Can that team win a title? They’d have a shot. But would they be immediate favorites as James likely desires? I can’t go that far.
It’s for that reason James’ likelihood as a free agent target is little more than a pipe dream. But, if he does opt out this summer, the Lakers would be absolutely remiss not to try to target LeBron, who immediately turns any team into a contender.
Target Legitimacy: 1/10
Contract To Be Earned: Max. All the money, to be specific.